Meknes
Save27 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Ornate monumental gate, often called the finest in Morocco.
- Tip: Late afternoon
2 tips
- Photograph it from Place el-Hedim
- Free to admire
📷 Photos
- 2
Central square with food stalls and street performers.
- Tip: Watch your bag
2 tips
- Come at dusk for the busiest atmosphere
- Try street snacks
📷 Photos
- 3
Sacred tomb of the sultan who made Meknes his capital.
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Open to non-Muslims in the courtyards
- Free entry
📷 Photos
- 4
Vast granary and stables built by Moulay Ismail.
3 tips
- Cool vaulted halls even in summer
- Allow an hour
- Take a taxi, it is outside the medina
📷 Photos
- 5
Huge royal reservoir with calm views near the stables.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Sunset is lovely
- Bring a camera
- Free to visit
📷 Photos
- 6
19th-century palace museum of Moroccan decorative arts.
- Must know: Closed Tuesdays
2 tips
- Enjoy the Andalusian garden
- Allow an hour
📷 Photos
- 7
Lively covered markets selling spices, crafts and textiles.
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Less hassle than larger cities
- Bargain politely
📷 Photos
- 8
14th-century Marinid religious school with carved cedar and zellige.
3 tips
- Open to visitors for a small fee
- Photograph the courtyard
- Combine with the souks
📷 Photos
- 9
Best preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, with fine mosaics.
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Hire a guide at the entrance
- Day trip of about 30 km
📷 Photos
- 10
Hill town holy to Moroccans, white houses on twin peaks.
3 tips
- Combine with Volubilis
- Climb to the viewpoint
- Avoid the main pilgrimage days
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Meknes tips
Transportation
- Use petit taxis: Small city taxis are cheap; ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a price before the ride.
- Take the train: ONCF trains connect Meknes with Fes, Rabat and Casablanca and are comfortable and affordable.
- Share a grand taxi: Grand taxis run to Moulay Idriss and near Volubilis; you can share with locals or hire one for the trip.
Security
- Avoid faux guides: Men offering to show you the medina may expect payment or lead you to shops; politely decline or hire an official guide.
- Watch belongings: Keep valuables secure in crowded markets and around Place el-Hedim.
- Be polite but firm: If someone insists on helping, a firm la shukran, no thank you, usually works.
Saving
- Eat at local stalls: Try sandwiches, snail soup and grilled meats at local stalls around Place el-Hedim.
- Bargain in souks: Haggling is expected; start lower than the asking price and stay friendly.
- Stay in a riad: Many riads offer good value, often with breakfast included and helpful local tips.
Weather/Clothing
- Prepare for hot summers: July and August are hot and dry; wear light clothes, a hat and sunscreen.
- Pack layers in winter: Winters can be chilly and rainy, especially at night; bring a warm jacket.
- Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees to show respect, especially in the medina and religious areas.
Cultural
- Respect mosques: Most mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims; admire them from outside.
- Try local cuisine: Sample tagines, couscous on Fridays and Meknes olives and wines from the surrounding region.
- Accept mint tea: Sharing tea is a sign of hospitality; accept politely and enjoy the conversation.
Local Hacks
- Visit Volubilis early: Explore the Roman ruins in the morning for cooler weather and softer light for photos.
- Enjoy Place el-Hedim at dusk: The square comes alive in the evening with food, music and storytellers.
- See Bab Mansour: This monumental gate is one of Morocco's finest; view it from Place el-Hedim for the best perspective.
1-day itineraries in Meknes
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.